Branch 215 (Military Security)

Branch 215 of Syrian Military Intelligence, located in the Qaboun neighborhood of Damascus, became one of the most notorious detention facilities in the Syrian civil war. Known informally as 'the Raid Branch,' it specialized in detaining those captured in military operations. Documented practices include suspension torture (shabeh), electric shock, sexual violence, and forced disappearance. Hundreds of documented deaths in custody. Sanctioned by the EU and US. Opened by rebel forces in December 2024.

Notable Events

• ▸EU/US sanctions on facility command
• ▸Mass detentions post-2011
• ▸Liberation December 2024

Known Officials

• ◆Jamil Hassan (Air Force Intelligence, oversight)
• ◆Riad al-Ahmad (commander)